Use a cotton ball or cotton swab to apply the medication so there’s less risk of the fungus spreading to your other nails. Nail fungus can be pretty persistent, so it could take a few months to completely remove nail fungus with topical treatment.
Try to soak your foot twice a day until the fungus is gone, which could take a few months. If your skin gets irritated from the vinegar, try adding more water to the solution or only soaking your nails every other day.
Tea tree oil has fungicidal properties, so it could help get your nail fungus under control. Instead of tea tree oil, you can try oregano oil since it also has potential to stop fungus from growing or spreading. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source If you develop any skin irritation where you’re applying tea tree oil, stop using it. Avoid swallowing tea tree oil since it’s toxic and can cause loss of coordination and breathing problems. [6] X Research source
It may take a few months for mentholated ointment to fully get rid of nail fungus.
You can use Listerine for nail fungus twice a day.
Alternatively, you can sprinkle garlic powder in your socks for a similar effect.
Apply nail fungus bandages that contain urea onto your nails the night before you trim them. The urea will soak into your nails to help soften them. If your nails are really thick and difficult to cut on your own, visit a podiatrist or dermatologist to trim them.
Your doctor may take a clipping of your nail to confirm that you have fungus rather than psoriasis or another skin condition.
Typically, you’ll have to take a pill every day or apply a topical ointment 1–2 times daily. Your prescription may last for a few weeks, but it could take up to a few months. Oral antifungals, such as itraconazole, terbinafine, or fluconazole can cause dizziness, headaches, stomach problems, rash, or liver damage. Avoid these medications if you have liver disease, heart failure, or are pregnant. [16] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Common topical medications include amorolfine, ciclopirox, efinaconazole, and tavaborole. Possible side effects may include redness, swelling, or a stinging sensation. [17] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Some forms of topical medication come in a clear nail polish that you paint onto your nails.
There haven’t been a lot of studies on how effective laser treatments are, so talk with your doctor to make sure it’s the right option for you.
Removing the nail lets topical medications penetrate your nail bed easier to stop and kill fungal growth.
If you have dry or cracked skin around your toenails or fingernails, apply moisturizer to help your skin heal and prevent a fungal infection from getting in. [21] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Taking care of your nails makes it more difficult for fungus to build up or cause an infection.
Use a different set of clippers for infected nails and healthy nails so you don’t spread the infection between them. Avoid sharing your nail clippers with other people since that could increase the spread of nail fungus. If you get your nails done at a salon, make sure they’re a reputable business that disinfects their products every time they use them.
If you get your socks or shoes wet, take them off as soon as you can. That way, there’s less of a chance that fungus will develop.
If you don’t sprinkle antifungal powder in your old shoes, throw them away so you don’t reinfect yourself with nail fungus. Alternatively, try using an antifungal spray in your shoes every day before you put them on.
If you can’t get rid of athlete’s foot on your own, contact your doctor to see if they can offer a stronger prescription treatment.
Nail fungus is more common on your toenails than your fingernails.
You may also notice your nails develop ridges that are raised off the surface.
The residue or buildup on your nails may also have an unpleasant odor if you have a nail infection.
